A woman, aged 29 years, has just been diagnosed with breast cancer. The physician has presented several treatment options but the patient cannot make a decision at this time
As the nurse caring for the patient what questions can you ask that will assist this patient in making a decision about what treatment option is best for her?
A) "If you choose to keep your breast would you consider chemotherapy 5 days a week for 5 to 6 weeks?"
B) "Your breasts are very small—you aren't considering breast reconstruction, are you?"
C) "How would you feel about losing your breast?"
D) "How would your social support system feel about your altered body image?"
Ans: C
Feedback: The nurse can explore the issues with the individual patient by asking questions such as the following: How would you feel about losing your breast? Are you considering breast reconstruction? If you choose to retain your breast, would you consider undergoing radiation treatments 5 days a week for 5 to 6 weeks? Chemotherapy is not generally given 5 days a week for 5 to 6 weeks. Option B is an appropriate question termed in a negative, condescending way, so it is incorrect. Option D is irrelevant and not an appropriate question.
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